Health: It’s a national responsibility.
Six councils across WA’s Wheatbelt and Great Southern have united to call for reform to how rural GP services are funded in thin markets. Right now, local governments are contributing annual rates income to attract and retain doctors – but that’s not sustainable.
We’re asking for your support as we advocate for the Commonwealth to take responsibility for doctor attraction and retention that ensures rural Australians can access essential healthcare – no matter their postcode.
Show your support
Access to primary healthcare shouldn’t be a local government responsibility
In regional WA, some families drive up to 184km one way just to see a GP. With few doctors willing to move to remote communities, local councils have had no choice but to step in – paying over $1.47 million a year from ratepayer funds to keep basic medical services available.
This means fewer funds for roads, community infrastructure and other core services. It’s an unsustainable model – and it’s only getting worse.
What We’re Calling For
We’re calling on the Commonwealth Government to take responsibility for doctor attraction and retention payments, in rural communities to:
- Help attract and retain GPs
- Reduce reliance on ratepayer funds
- Free up local budgets for essential services
- Support healthier, more resilient rural communities
The Facts
- Life expectancy in remote WA is up to 7 years lower than in metro areas
- Local governments are using up to 16% of their entire annual rates just to secure GPs
- Access to GPs is a Commonwealth responsibility
- Thin markets require a different approach
- This burden is falling on the wrong level of government
The Local Government Rural Health Funding Alliance founding members:
Supported by
If you would like further information, you can contact us here.
- Copyright © Local Government Rural Health Funding Alliance 2025